Abstract: At least one actuating or cut-off spring is provided which is compressed in the cut-on or closed position of the switch and is coupled to an actuating linkage or rod leading to movable contacts of the switch. An arrangement is provided to variably modify the force exerted by the actuating spring on the actuating linkage in relation to the stroke. This arrangement consists of a force transmission device arranged between the actuating spring and the actuating linkage. The force transmission device permits taking into account the type of switching stroke to be executed and optimally adapting the force pattern during a switch cut-off stroke thereto. The variation of the force pattern during the switch closing or cut-on stroke is not symmetrical to that of the switch opening or cut-off stroke. The force transmission characteristics of the force transmission device are different according to the requirements of the switching stroke to be executed.

Abstract: A drive element coupled with a mechanical drive is guided out of a switch housing through a through-passage housing containing a liquid bath. In the liquid bath there is immersed a hydraulic damping device containing a cylinder and piston and cooperating with said drive element, so that, with virtually no additional constructional expenditure at the drive, there is achieved a dependable braking of the drive element towards the end of a switching stroke. The piston of the hydraulic damping device is connected by means of a drag connection with the drive element. This drag connection includes at least one entrainment rod connected with the piston and acted upon by an entrainment collar provided at the drive element.